Diazepam binding inhibitor (DBI) in the plasma of pediatric and adult epileptic patients.
The polypeptide diazepam binding inhibitor (DBI) displays epileptogenic activity by binding to benzodiazepine receptors. We analyzed DBI concentrations in the plasma of pediatric and adult epileptic patients, as a possible peripheral marker in epilepsy. DBI plasma concentrations are significantly higher (+ 62%, P < 0.001) in adult patients and slightly but significantly higher (+15%, P < 0.01) in pediatric patients, compared to age-related controls. Strikingly, plasma DBI is much higher (+81%, P < 0.001) in generalized epilepsy in adults and in drug-resistant pediatric and adult patients. Based on these findings, plasma DBI may be considered as a peripheral biological marker of epilepsy and, in association with lymphocyte benzodiazepine receptor density, of anticonvulsant drug responsiveness.
Ferrarese
C
C
Scientific Institute E. Medea, Bosisio Parini, Lecco, Italy. carlofer@imiucca.csi.unimi.it
Cogliati
T
T
Tortorella
R
R
Zucca
C
C
Bogliun
G
G
Beghi
E
E
Passoni
D
D
Zoia
C
C
Begni
B
B
Airoldi
L
L
Alho
H
H
Frattola
L
L
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002352:Carrier Proteins / Q000097:blood* / Q000187:drug effects; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D026261:Diazepam Binding Inhibitor; D004351:Drug Resistance; D004828:Epilepsies, Partial / Q000097:blood* / Q000188:drug therapy; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000097:blood / Q000188:drug therapy; D004829:Epilepsy, Generalized / Q000097:blood* / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D002352:Carrier Proteins; D026261:Diazepam Binding Inhibitor